Update: I finally got through using that Claimyr service mentioned earlier. Turns out there was an issue with my job separation information that my former employer had submitted incorrectly. They're fixing it now but it's going to take 2-3 weeks to process. At least I finally know what happened!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - got disqualified last week with no clear explanation in my account. Reading through all these responses is both helpful and frustrating because it seems like this is such a common problem with Washington ESD. I'm going to try the Claimyr service that several people mentioned since calling directly hasn't worked for me either. It's ridiculous that we have to pay a third party service just to get through to our own state unemployment office, but at this point I just need answers. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - at least I know I'm not alone in this mess.

Just wanted to add - make sure you restart your claim this week! You only have until Saturday to backdate it to when you were laid off on Wednesday. If you miss that window, you'll lose this week's benefits.

Construction worker here too - just went through this same process last month! One thing I learned is that even with standby approval, you still need to certify every week and report any work you do (even small side jobs). Also, if your return date gets pushed back for any reason, you need to notify ESD immediately or they'll consider it a change in circumstances and might require you to start job searching. The standby status really does make things smoother though - no job search requirements and faster processing when you do go back to work. Good luck!

Based on your additional details, I strongly recommend requesting an appeal extension based on financial hardship. Even though you missed the original deadline, ESD can sometimes grant extensions in cases of significant hardship, which being a new single mom certainly qualifies as. Call and specifically ask for a "late appeal request based on financial hardship" and explain your situation as a single parent who couldn't afford postage at the time. Document everything - the name of who you speak with, date, time, and what was discussed. Also, it's very concerning that the amount increased from $1100 to $1700 when you've been making payments. Definitely request that itemized statement. It might also be worth checking if they've applied any penalties for the missed appeal deadline, which could explain some of the increase.

I'm really sorry you're going through this mess with ESD - their overpayment calculations can be incredibly confusing and frustrating to deal with. From what you've described, it definitely sounds like they may have incorrectly applied their earnings distribution rules to your situation. One thing that might help while you're trying to get through to them: keep detailed records of every payment you've made so far, including dates and amounts. When you do get someone on the phone, having this information ready will help you challenge any discrepancies in their calculations. Also, don't give up on that hardship waiver someone mentioned earlier. As a single mom who was in financial distress when the original appeal deadline passed, you have legitimate grounds for requesting an extension. ESD has some discretion in these situations, especially when there are clear hardship circumstances. The fact that you reported everything honestly and on time shows you were trying to do the right thing. Hang in there and keep pushing for answers - you deserve to understand exactly what you're being charged for and why.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to try the online payment option first, and if that doesn't work I'll use that Claimyr service to call and set up a payment plan. Really appreciate all the tips about documentation too.

One thing I'd add is to make sure you understand exactly what period the overpayment covers before you pay. I had a similar situation and discovered they had miscalculated the dates - saved me about $400 when I pointed it out. Also, if you do end up owing the full amount, ask about hardship options. Washington ESD sometimes has more flexibility than they initially let on, especially if you can show financial hardship documentation.

Just to close the loop on this discussion - I went ahead and set up 10% federal tax withholding on my remaining unemployment payments. Also found the tax information section on the Washington ESD website that someone mentioned. Really comprehensive info there. Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice!

This is such an important topic that many people don't think about until it's too late! I made a similar mistake when I first collected unemployment - didn't realize the benefits were taxable and ended up with a surprise tax bill. One thing I'd add is that you might also want to consider making quarterly estimated tax payments if you think you'll owe a significant amount. The IRS has penalties for underpayment if you don't pay enough throughout the year. You can use Form 1040ES to calculate and make these payments. Also, keep detailed records of all your unemployment payments and any taxes withheld - it makes filing much easier when tax season comes around.